Adapted sports participants head to nationals

The National Junior Disability Championships take place in Mesa, Ariz., July 21-July 28, and Team Rockford is ready to compete. Events include archery, field, pentathlon, powerlifting, swimming, table tennis and track.

The Olympic-style sports competition is for youth with disabilities, including (but not limited to) those with spina bifida, cerebral palsy, amputees, visually impaired/blind, dwarfism and any other similar physical disabilities that impede movement or the ability to participate in non-adapted sports. Athletes must qualify at local and regional meets.

Nine-year-old Cameron Poole will compete in six swimming events. He has competed at the National Junior Disability Championships twice before, and won his age group and division. He is a member of Team Rockford, which consists of various players who participate in Rockford Park District’s adapted sports program, which includes track and field, softball and boccia. These programs are geared toward introducing players to the wonderful world of sports. Athletes can choose to participate at the level where they are comfortable, whether it’s recreationally or competitively.